The sand-laden tractors seized by the Vigilance & Enforcement department in Karimnagar on Tuesday.
The Vigilance & Enforcement (V&E) department seized five sand-loaded tractors during a surprise route check conducted near Jammikunta in the early hours of Tuesday (February 17).
Acting on a tip-off, officials of the Karimnagar unit intercepted the vehicles on Korepalli Road near the FCI godowns. Each tractor was found carrying around five metric tonnes of sand sourced from the Manair River belt under the pretext of transporting ‘free sand’ meant for Indiramma housing beneficiaries.
Authorities said a criminal case has been registered against the drivers and owners under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR), the Prevention of Public Property Damage (POPP) Act and the Motor Vehicles Act. The charges include illegal sand transportation, damage to natural resources, theft of State property, rash and negligent driving, and obstructing public servants.
Citizens have been urged to report any irregularities or misuse through the toll-free helpline 14432.
Published – February 17, 2026 08:04 pm IST
